An international team of doctors visiting a hospital in central Gaza was shocked by the gruesome impact Israel's war against Hamas is having on Palestinian children. The doctors described heart-wrenching scenes of toddlers and infants suffering severe injuries from Israeli strikes, with one toddler succumbing to a brain injury and his cousin fighting for her life with part of her face blown off.
Gaza's health sector has been severely affected after nearly six months of war, with roughly a dozen hospitals out of 36 either partially functioning or shut down completely due to fuel and medicine shortages, Israeli raids, or damage from fighting. Hospitals like Al-Aqsa Martyrs are overwhelmed, caring for an increasing number of patients with limited supplies and staff.
The hospital, which previously had a capacity of 160 beds, now accommodates around 800 patients, while many of its 120 staff members are unable to come to work. Health care workers, facing the same struggles as others in Gaza, bring their children to the hospital for safety.
Thousands of war-displaced people are also seeking refuge on the hospital grounds, hoping for safety. While Israel has alleged that hospitals are used by Hamas for military purposes, Hamas denies the claims. Israeli troops have not besieged Al-Aqsa Martyrs but have attacked surrounding areas, posing a constant threat.
The ongoing bombardment and offensive in Gaza have resulted in over 32,000 Palestinian deaths and nearly 75,000 injuries, with about two-thirds of the casualties being women and children. The U.N.'s agency for children estimates that roughly half of Gaza's population is 17 or younger.
Israel holds Hamas responsible for civilian casualties, citing militants' operations within civilian areas. The war, triggered by Hamas and other militants attacking southern Israel, has led to severe limitations on food, fuel, and medical supplies entering Gaza. While aid flow has increased, complications at the border and continued fighting have caused significant delays.
Hospitals like Al-Aqsa Martyrs are struggling with shortages of medical equipment and anesthetics, leading to surgeries being performed without painkillers. Doctors emphasize that the only solution to Gaza's health care crisis is an end to the war.
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